How To Host The Best Tailgate Party At Home

It's the most wonderful time of the year – football season! Depending on what part of the country you are in, football can be a way of life. If you aren’t able to go to games and tailgate, never fear. We’ve got all the tips you’ll need to throw a great football watch party at home.

The TV is the star of the show. That said, before your guests arrive, rearrange your living room furniture (if necessary) to allow for optimum TV viewing. Make sure the TV is front and center, and there’s plenty of seating available. Toss some oversized pillows on the floor as secondary seating options.

Create the game day atmosphere. If you’re an avid tailgater, you know exactly what I am talking about! Have a radio inside tuned to the pregame show (if it’s not televised). Use coolers in the kitchen or on a back porch/patio to store beverages.

Decorate, Decorate, Decorate. Small details can make a big difference – and decorations don’t have to be expensive! The more team décor you have, the better. Purchasing football gear can be expensive, though. To save a little money, here are two easy DIYs you can do to give your indoor tailgate a more festive feel:

Football utensil holders: Hold on to two tin cans after prepping your snacks and rinse thoroughly. Paint brown and add football laces with white paint.

Penalty flag napkin holder: Use a cheap metal bucket (try the Target $ bin) to hold yellow napkins. If you can find either a white or black bucket, you can save about 15 minutes on this project! Paint either white or black stripes on your bucket, depending on the color you’ve purchased, to mimic a referee’s shirt.

Grill out – or have it brought in. Tailgating isn’t complete without grilling! However, the big difference when hosting an indoor tailgate is that it tends to be more of a watch party versus a pre-game party. Who wants to be slaving over a hot grill while the game is on? Not me! Instead, have a local restaurant provide the main course. Barbeque is always a great staple.

Snack Attack. Food is critical at a tailgate – indoor or outdoor! Make sure you have plenty to feed your guests. Be sure to provide a variety of options, and include some healthy ones as well. A veggie tray and dip is always an easy way to make sure everyone has at least one healthy option. Buy mini brownies (the round ones) from your local grocery store bakery. Use white icing in a piping back to create football laces on the brownies. Quick, easy football desserts!

Create a “Drink of the Game.” While cold beer is always a must at a tailgate party, take the opportunity to also include a cocktail for your guests that is themed in support of your team, coach or mascot – or against your opponent!

Click on the image below to download the free printable shown in this blog entry. It can be printed on Avery 5265 (Full Sheet Labels).

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